April 30 > May 9, 2027










50
Countries
24
Editions
250
Organizers
2.500
Participants
50
Countries
50.000
Visitors
60
Exhibitors
Origin and history :
Created in 2001, the Wind Challenge has grown rapidly in popularity, attracting increasing numbers of participants every year.
The event usually takes place in May or June, taking advantage of the region’s strong, steady winds.
Event format :
The Défis are distinguished by their unique formula: a long-distance race in which hundreds, even thousands of enthusiasts start simultaneously.
Routes vary according to weather conditions, but are often designed to maximize exposure to wind and navigation challenges.
Participants :
Open to all, the Challenges attract both professionals and passionate amateurs.
The event is a real gliding party, with a friendly, community atmosphere.
Wind conditions :
Gruissan is renowned for its strong, steady winds, particularly the Tramontane, which provide ideal conditions for water sports.
Participants must be prepared to face powerful winds and sometimes demanding conditions.
Activities and entertainment :
In addition to the races, the Wind/Kite/Wing Challenges offer a variety of activities, including demonstrations, equipment trials, conferences and festive evenings.
Exhibitors, especially board sports equipment manufacturers, present their latest products and offer testing opportunities.




Defi Wind
- 6 to MAY 9 2027 -
1500 places available
With over 1,350 participants (aged 13 to 76) in 2026, Defi Wind has established itself as the world’s biggest windsurfing event, often compared to the “Woodstock of windsurfing”. This extraordinary race is a showcase of intense athletic performance, spanning one of the longest distances in competition.
- 25th edition
- Marathon of the Seas – a 40 km Long Distance challenge
- Pros and Amateurs on the same starting line
- Open to Everyone
Enthusiasts from all corners of the globe come together at the same place and time to share their passion. After the thrilling on-water spectacle, the event continues on land, where attendees can explore numerous exhibitor stands and enjoy evening concerts. Defi Wind, the Experience– a unique blend of passion, competition, and camaraderie.


Defi WING
- May 3 to 5, 2027 -
800 places available
In 2026, Gruissan was the scene of the fifth edition of the Défi Wing, a new wingfoil version of the famous Défi Wind. 600 wingfoil enthusiasts answered the call to line up on the iconic hare start opposite the Vieille Nouvelle beach. Epic battles animated the waters, extending into the village with an exceptional atmosphere between professionals, amateurs and spectators!
- 6th edition
- 800 participants expected
- Open to Everyone
Join us, relish this unique moment, and explore our brand village featuring the latest wingfoil innovations. The vibe is always electric in the village, transitioning swiftly into evening mode once the competition concludes.
Come and experience the excitement with us!


DEFI KITE
- April 30 to May 2, 2027 -
500 places available
The Defi Kite is a long-distance international kitesurfing mass event. In 2026, it will be its 13th edition…
In 2026, the Defi Kite brought together almost 400 participants from 30 different countries. More than just a competition, the Defi Kite is both a sporting and festive event!
It’s considered one of the world’s most important gatherings for fans of the sport!
Organizers present an extraordinary competition format for this colossal sea marathon, featuring several legs of 40 kilometers each. A long distance which, depending on your level of fitness, will take between 1 hour and 2h30. The intensity of the regatta reaches new heights and offers spectacular images.


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Contact us
Do you need help? Fill in the form to contact the Defi Wind team.
- hello@defiwind.fr
- Gruissan plage, 11430

































